Between Sessions with Justin and Challee

Justin and Challee
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Mental Health
  • Updated Weekly

Hosted by two experienced clinicians, this podcast dives into real conversations about mental health, healing, and everyday life. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, burnout, relationships, or just trying to keep it together — we’re here to help you feel seen, heard, and supported. No judgment, no jargon — just honest talk and practical tools for your mental wellness journey.

  1. 1d ago

    You Can Tell Your Therapist THAT?!

    Sex. Money. Parenting. Suicidal thoughts. Even the things you’re afraid to admit. Therapy is a place to talk about it. In this conversation, Justin and Challee discuss various topics that individuals often feel uncomfortable bringing up in therapy, emphasizing that therapy is a safe space for all thoughts and feelings. They explore themes such as discussing sex, criminal activity, suicidal thoughts, personal hygiene, financial stress, and parenting challenges, encouraging listeners to normalize these conversations. Key Topics The importance of openness in therapyTopics often considered taboo like sex and personal hygieneConfidentiality and mandatory reporting in therapyHandling difficult thoughts like suicidal or homicidal ideationThe role of silence and vulnerability in therapeutic progressAddressing trauma and military experiences safelyNormalizing discussions around mental health strugglesEncouraging honesty about family and personal issuesTakeaways Therapy is a safe space for discussing any topic, including taboo subjects.Building rapport and trust encourages clients to share openly.Silence can be a powerful tool in therapy for reflection.Clients should feel empowered to set boundaries and express needs.Discussing difficult thoughts does not mean a client is a danger, but safety is paramount.Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Therapy Topics05:43 Breaking Taboos: Discussing Sex10:07 Addressing Criminal Activity and Confidentiality14:23 Navigating Suicidal Thoughts and Emotions18:49 Personal Hygiene and Mental Health21:57 Financial Stress and Therapy22:25 Postpartum Thoughts and Parenting Challenges25:17 The Importance of Open CommunicationLinktree-Vote for Justin as Next Top Host! 💚 https://tophost.org/2026/justin-reynolds-2 https://linktr.ee/qr/5d79ab63-3e58-4ba2-a123-2846ad5f498b

  2. Sep 28

    From School Struggles to Homeschooling: Finding What Works

    The conversation delves into the decision to homeschool, struggles in traditional schooling, the impact on family dynamics, positive changes from starting homeschooling, challenges and risks of homeschooling, benefits of homeschooling, socialization and structure, and misconceptions about homeschooling. Takeaways Gifted children often struggle with boredom and under-stimulation in traditional schools.Recognizing signs like behavioral issues and headaches can indicate deeper stress.Homeschooling may reduce stress, improve sleep, and enhance social skills through community activities.Flexibility and autonomy in homeschooling can foster engagement and self-paced learning.Support systems like online programs with dedicated teachers make homeschooling manageable.Key Topics Signs of under-stimulation in gifted childrenImpact of school environment on behavior and stressBalancing socialization and education outside traditional schoolUsing online programs and flexible schedules in homeschoolingManaging parental stress and household dynamics during homeschoolingChapters 00:00 The Decision to Homeschool03:15 Struggles in School05:38 Recognizing the Need for Change08:00 Impact on Family Dynamics10:19 Positive Changes After Homeschooling14:37 Challenges and Risks of Homeschooling21:01 Benefits of Homeschooling23:56 Socialization and Structure28:44 Misconceptions About HomeschoolingLinktree https://linktr.ee/qr/5d79ab63-3e58-4ba2-a123-2846ad5f498b

  3. Sep 21

    Your Future Self Might Need This Plan

    The conversation explores the concept of safety plans, their purpose, and their application in crisis situations. It delves into the components of a safety plan, including warning signs, coping skills, distractions, professional resources, and reasons for living. The conversation emphasizes the importance of tailoring safety plans to individual needs and the benefits of having a safety plan readily available. Key Topics What is a safety plan and why it mattersCommon components of a safety plan including warning signs, coping skills, and resourcesDifferences in safety planning for adults and teensGrounding and distraction techniques during crisesAddressing fears and misconceptions about safety plansThe importance of environment safety and reasons for livingHow to tailor safety plans to individual needsBenefits of having a safety plan readily accessible Takeaways Tailoring safety plans to individual needsHaving a safety plan readily available can ease navigation during a crisis Chapters 00:00 Understanding Safety Plans02:49 Components of a Safety Plan05:47 Coping Skills and Distractions12:50 Safety Plans for Different Age Groups18:07 Making the Environment Safer20:05 Benefits of Having a Safety Plan Resources Stanley-Brown Safety Plan Form- https://suicidesafetyplan.com/forms/ Crisis supports-https://988lifeline.org/ Call/test-988 Linktree https://linktr.ee/qr/5d79ab63-3e58-4ba2-a123-2846ad5f498b

  4. Sep 14

    Grief: Feeling It, Facing It, Finding Your Way

    The conversation delves into the multifaceted experience of grief, exploring the stages, symptoms, and support mechanisms. It emphasizes the individual nature of grief and the importance of allowing oneself to feel and work through it. The process of healing and managing grief is also discussed, highlighting the ongoing nature of the journey. Key Topics The seven stages of grief and their non-linear naturePersonal experiences with grief and denialThe importance of validation and support during griefThe emotional roller coaster and waves of griefPractical ways to support loved ones in grief Takeaways Grief is a multifaceted experience that requires understanding and support.The stages of grief are not linear and can be revisited or experienced in different ways.Healing from grief involves managing the process and finding a path forward while allowing oneself to feel and work through the emotions. Chapters 00:00 Understanding Grief03:02 The Seven Stages of Grief09:53 The Grief Roller Coaster16:48 Understanding Anger and Bargaining19:06 The Stage of Depression22:05 Supporting a Loved One Through Grief27:52 Testing and Finding a Path Forward32:12 Healing and Managing Grief

  5. Sep 7

    Let’s Talk About Suicide: The Conversation That Could Save a Life

    The episode discusses critical suicide awareness and prevention, covering statistics, warning signs, and the importance of having open conversations about suicide including children, teens, and adults. It emphasizes the need for support, understanding, and access to resources for individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts. September is Suicide Awareness Month! The world is better with you here 💚 Takeaways Suicide awareness and prevention are crucialOpen conversations and support are essential Key Topics Suicide statistics and trends in 2024Warning signs of suicidal ideation in children, teens, and adultsThe importance of talking openly about mental healthHow to approach and support someone considering suicideDifferences between suicidal ideation and plansRole of self-harm in suicide risk assessmentCrisis resources and intervention steps Chapters 00:00 Suicide Awareness Month01:27 Statistics and Trends02:24 Youth Suicide Statistics03:24 Causes of Death and Misconceptions05:26 Talking About Suicide06:25 Warning Signs and Conversations23:09 Understanding Ideation and Plans29:42 Support and Resources Linktree https://linktr.ee/qr/5d79ab63-3e58-4ba2-a123-2846ad5f498b Resources Text or call-988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline https://988lifeline.org/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=onebox Treatment Locator https://findtreatment.gov/

  6. Aug 31

    Cutting Off Mom & Dad: Is Therapy to Blame?

    The conversation delves into the controversial topic of whether therapists are to blame for the rise of adults cutting off their parents. It explores the role of therapists, the impact of childhood experiences, and generational parenting and communication as contributing factors to the complex decision of adult children to cut off their parents. Key Topics Therapists do not give advice, guide insteadThe complexity of adult children cutting off parentsTrauma is subjective and varies for each individualThe importance of safe spaces in therapyGenerational parenting styles and their impactThe role of personal accountability in family conflictsThe influence of societal and cultural normsThe emotional toll of family estrangement Takeaways Therapists are ethically bound not to give direct advice but to guide clients.Adult children often make difficult decisions to protect their mental health.Trauma is personal; what is traumatic for one may not be for another.Creating safe spaces in therapy helps clients process complex emotions.Generational parenting styles influence family dynamics today. Blame for family estrangement often lies with individual choices, not therapists.Open communication and reflection can help break cycles of dysfunction.Therapists serve as facilitators, not decision-makers in family conflicts. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the controversy around therapy and family estrangement02:07 The ethics of giving advice in therapy sessions03:20 Why adult children often make tough decisions to cut contact05:34 The importance of understanding trauma and emotional safety07:09 The impact of childhood experiences and generational parenting styles09:56 How therapy can help build courage and process trauma11:46 Reflecting on childhood roles and their influence on family dynamics13:29 Addressing blame and responsibility in family estrangement15:19 The importance of personal accountability and societal norms17:23 Justin and Challee’s closing thoughts and invitation for perspectives Linktree https://linktr.ee/qr/5d79ab63-3e58-4ba2-a123-2846ad5f498b

  7. Aug 24

    A Year Later: Are We Still People-Pleasing?

    The conversation revisits the topic of people-pleasing, exploring personal growth and boundary-setting over the past year. It delves into the challenges of enforcing boundaries in professional settings and the impact of canceling appointments along with making time for healthy relationships. Justin and Challee share their experiences and strategies for finding a balance between being accommodating and setting firm boundaries. Takeaways Enforcing boundaries is essential for mental health and professional integrity.Self-worth is a crucial factor in reducing people pleasing behaviors.Societal undervaluing of mental health contributes to boundary issues.Reflecting on personal growth helps reinforce healthy behaviors.Leaning on a support network is vital for maintaining boundaries. Chapters 00:00 Revisiting People Pleasing01:25 Personal Growth and Boundary-Setting06:32 Challenges of Enforcing Boundaries08:58 Impact of Canceling Appointments23:37 Strategies for Finding a Balance Linktree https://linktr.ee/qr/5d79ab63-3e58-4ba2-a123-2846ad5f498b

  8. Aug 17

    One Year of Showing Up: Growth, Grit & Going for It

    The conversation reflects on the one-year anniversary of the podcast, highlighting personal and professional growth, overcoming challenges, and the impact of dedication and courage. It also explores the integration of passion and responsibility, reframing mindset, and the transition to an official business. Takeaways Dedication and consistency lead to growthCourage and confidence open doorsEmbracing imperfection leads to progress Chapters 00:00 Celebrating One-Year Anniversary00:54 Reflecting on Highlights02:16 Overcoming Comfort Zone02:57 Dedication and Growth03:26 Life's Unexpected Challenges05:13 Adapting to Life's Curveballs06:35 Consistent Commitment07:05 Support and Accountability08:03 Balancing Life and Passion09:25 Navigating Personal Loss10:22 Prioritizing Boundaries11:21 Integration of Passion and Responsibility12:20 Creating a Safe Space for Relevant Topics13:40 Navigating Professional Image14:10 Impactful Engagement and Feedback15:09 Passion for Helping Others16:33 Building Confidence and Mindset17:58 Empowerment Through Mindset19:23 Reframing Hard Work and Productivity20:49 Finding Balance and Fulfillment23:13 Transition to Official Business24:41 Embracing Imperfection and Courage25:09 Opening Doors Through Courage Linktree https://linktr.ee/qr/5d79ab63-3e58-4ba2-a123-2846ad5f498b

    One Year of Showing Up: Growth, Grit & Going for It
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3 Ratings

About

Hosted by two experienced clinicians, this podcast dives into real conversations about mental health, healing, and everyday life. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, burnout, relationships, or just trying to keep it together — we’re here to help you feel seen, heard, and supported. No judgment, no jargon — just honest talk and practical tools for your mental wellness journey.

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